XP Conversations: Vinyl Mode

Since 2005, Saudi-born DJ and Producer Muhannad Nasser AKA Vinyl Mode has been playing a major role in the elevation of the Saudi underground scene.

Having spread his sound internationally with shows in Germany, Greece, Netherlands, Lebanon and France, to name a few, Nasser played a notable role in the formation of MDLBEAST, whilst hosting a show on Saudi Radio FM called Mykonian Sessions, with the express purpose of cultivating a culture for electronic music throughout the kingdom.

We spoke to Vinyl Mode about the transition of the Saudi music scene from the private underground into the public, the importance of focusing on small platforms as well as mega-festivals, and the difference between building an audience and building a community.